COSTA RICA ACTIVE FAMILY ADVENTURE 8 DAYS/7 NIGHTS Visit us at www.wildland.com
Itinerary Overview This action-packed Costa Rica family adventure is designed for families with children 9 and up to explore the diverse habitats, exotic wildlife and fun-loving culture of Costa Rica. Our expert Costa Rica guides share their skills and passion with you hiking in the rainforest, rappelling down waterfalls, walking on canopy bridges, and riding a sky tram through the forest. We'll taste traditional meals from Costa Rican families, learn to milk a cow, harvest tropical fruits, or mill sugar cane and savor its sweet juice. Our Costa Rica family tour concludes on the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio where we hike in the rain forest, kayak, and swim in the shimmering turquoise water. Travel in Costa Rica will bring out the Pura Vida in you, a local saying that literally means Pure Life, Full of Life, Going Great, or This is Living! DAY DATE OVERNIGHT HOTELS MEALS HIGHLIGHTS 1 SAN JOSE Hotel Bougainvillea Transfer to the hotel 2 ARENAL VOLCANO Arenal Nayara, Arenal Observatory BLD Orientation breakfast 7:30 am Vida Campesina farm, La Fortuna Waterfall, hot springs 3 ARENAL VOLCANO Arenal Nayara, Arenal Observatory BLD Horseback riding or biking, skytram/skytrek 4 ARENAL VOLCANO Arenal Nayara, Arenal Observatory BLD Canyoneering, hanging bridges 5 MANUEL ANTONIO El Parador, Villas Si Como No BL Stop to watch Crocodiles Outrigger kayaking 6 MANUEL ANTONIO El Parador, Villas Si Como No BL Manuel Antonio Park and Beaches 7 MANUEL ANTONIO El Parador, Villas Si Como No BL Campesinos day hike or Rafting on the Savegre River 8 SAN JOSE B Charter flight to the International airport -2-
Itinerary in Detail DAY 1: SAN JOSE We begin our multisport Costa Rica adventure with a warm Tico welcome after passing through customs. Transfer and overnight at Hotel Bougainvillea. DAY 2: ARENAL VOLCANO VIDA CAMPESINA FARM, LA FORTUNA WATERFALL AND HOTSPRINGS Meet at the hotel s restaurant at 7:30 am for a welcomee breakfast and orientation briefing with your guide. We then board our private vehicle for the journey overland through scenic mountains and rich agricultural land. At El Bosque, a small town near the Arenal Volcano we visit Don Erasmo Gonzalez, a local farmer who operates his organic farm with his four children. Depending upon the season, the Country Life adventure begins with a demonstration of sugar cane juice production using a manually-operated sugar mill. While the tour host explains the production techniques guests are welcomee to sample the freshly squeezed sweet cane juice. The tour continues on into the cultivated sections of the farm where visitors will see and learn about common Costa Rican crops such as coffee, bananas, plantains, sugar cane, red taro, white taro, medicinal plants, ñampi, tropical fruits, yuca, Chinese potato, papaya, corn, rice, ñame, annatto, and more. Also on the farm are various animals including cattle, chickens, sheep, and rabbits, whose organic waste is converted to biogas, organic fertilizer and an organic foliar fertilizer. At the end of the farm tour, guests proceed to the garden areaa where they can harvest organic vegetables and bring them to the farm s restaurant where they will be washed and prepared for lunch. In addition to freshly harvested vegetables, lunch includes a hands-on demonstration on tortilla making whichh are then served with the meal! Further into the Central Highlands we hike through a lush rainforest canyon for a refreshing swim under La Fortuna waterfall. We continue on to La Fortuna Hotsprings, a piece of paradise owned by Dona Mireya and her family. A Costa Rican typical dinner is served under a rustic rancho. Overnight at Hotel Arenal Nayara or Arenal Observatory Lodge [BLD] DAY 3: ARENAL VOLCANO - DON TOBIAS HORSEBACK RIDING OR MOUNTAINN BIKING AND ZIP LINE CANOPY TOUR Prepare for an exciting day of exploration as we join a horseback riding adventure. We travel through Arenal s fields, streams and rainforest and ride along old trails and private grounds that were used by Don Tobias, a well known horse breeder in the Arenal area. These trails give us the opportunity to observe a vast array of wildlife along the way ncluding monkeys, sloth, iguanas, butterflies, and flowers that our guide will point out along the way. We get to a lookout point wheree we can marvel at the majestic Arenal Volcano and its beautiful surroundings. What to take: long pants, hiking shoes, hat, sun block and camera. Tour duration: As short as 1 hour or as long as 3 hours. -3-
Note if you prefer to do Mountain biking instead of horseback riding, the option is available at no additional cost, just let us know. In the afternoon we board the Sky Tram gondolas for a ride upward through the forest to the highest point of Arenal Reserve to begin the Sky Trek, one of the most exhilarating zipline canopy tours in Costa Rica. The system includes 8 crosssectional cables with a total length of 1.75 miles and 66-660 feet above the ground. We will recount our experiences over a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in La Fortuna. Overnight at Hotel Arenal Nayara or Arenal Observatory Lodge. [BLD] D DAY 4: ARENAL VOLCANO CANYONEERING AND HANGINGG BRIDGES Children and adults will be thrilled with our next adventure! Prepare to get wet this morning while we rappel down a mystical jungle canyonn filled with tropical waterfalls. We are assisted by a team of experienced guides using safety equipment before setting off down a series of stunning waterfalls that get bigger and Bigger and BIGGER; the grand finale is a 210 ft, 3-stage waterfall! We highly recommend water-proof cameras for this trip. We continue our Costa Rica adventure exploring the rain forest canopy with our guide on a series of hanging bridges winding through the old growth forest surrounding the Arenal Volcano. Keep your binoculars and camera handy as our guide shows us an abundance of wildlife, including up to 250 species of birds and animals including the white hawk, great curassow, rufous motmot as well as howler monkeys, coatimundis, sloth and white-collared peccary. Return to our hotel to rest and relax pool side or take a short hike with our guide. Overnight at Hotel Arenal Nayara or Arenal Observatory Lodge. [ BLD] DAY 5: MANUEL ANTONIO OUTRIGGER KAYAKING Let's pack up our belongings and prepare for a long but fun transit day to the beach! En route we stop for lunch and to view the huge American Crocodiles basking in the sun at the Tarcoles River bridge. Later join a fun and unique outrigger kayak excursion on stable eight-person boats that have been used for centuries for exploration and ocean-going transport. We glide beneath sea cliffs filled with pelicans and frigate birds. Weather permitting, we relax at a secludedd beach where we enjoy some of the best snorkeling on the central coast. For those interested, personal and double kayaks are also available (pleasee request them in advance). Arrive late afternoon at Manuel Antonio and our family friendly Costa Rica hotel. Overnight at Hotel El Parador or Villas Si Como No. [BL] -4-
DAY 6: MANUEL ANTONIO MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK AND BEACHES Pack your water bottle, sunscreen, and binoculars for an exciting Costa Rica eco tour exploring Manuel Antonio National Park. The small, but biologically diversee rain forest reserve is composed of three long strands of magnificent white sand beach bordered by a vine draped jungle filled with wildlife. Be on the lookout for a slow moving sloth perched in a tree. A rustle in the branches above probably means there are howler, white-faced capuchin and spider monkeys looking down at you. A sharp eye may catch the Central American squirrel monkey, locally called the mono titi, found in very few parks around the country. After a goodbye lunch, your Costa Rica tour guide will bid you farewell. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the beaches, try surfing, sea kayak along the Pacific coastline, ride horseback at a local reserve or just relax poolside (additional activities not included). Overnight at Hotel El Parador or Villas Si Como No. [BL] DAY 7: MANUEL ANTONIO - CAMPESINOS DAY HIKE OR... Grab your hiking shoes and daypack for the short drive to the town of Londres. After enjoying fresh fruits and coffee at Viki s Restaurant we depart for the 4 mile hike to the Campesinos Private Reserve. The hike begins at an old farm road passing creeks and waterfalls and offering beautiful views and great opportunities for wildlife and bird watching. Our hike ends at The Campesinos Reserve, located on a beautiful mountain range that is part of the community of Quebrada Arroyo, managed by Don Miguel Mora, his brother Visa and his wife Dona Juanita. These three local Costa Ricans love to share their experience and knowledge of Tico traditions, great food and the rain forest. A highlight of the Reservee is the system of suspension bridges over a deep river gorge. After lunch, a 1.5 mile hike takes us to the Savegre River where, with the help of the local guides we use a traditional manual tram (metal tram suspended by ropes) to get across the river. After the tram and river crossing we return to Manuel Antonio. Alternatively, a day of rafting (Class II-III) can be arranged for those looking for more challenging adventure....white WATER RAFTING ON SAVEGRE RIVER Considered one of the cleanest rivers in Central America; the Savegre is an authentic full day adventure: relaxation and pure action while enjoying the fantastic landscapes surrounding Manuel Antonio National Park. This adventuree starts with an early drive South of Quepos on our mini bus. It takes 1.5 hours through african oil plantations, teak reforestation projects and incredible landscapes to get tothe river put-in. After a safety briefing we start maneuvering rapids like Boca Diablo and Washing Machine. We stop on the river shore for a snack of fresh fruits and cookies to then continue our river journey. Before the end we hit Screaming Child rapid and then the river tames down until we meet with our mini bus. A five minute drive will take us to Silencio Lodge where a hot Costa Rican meal will be served. After lunch is a 50 minute drive back to Quepos. Overnight at Hotel El Parador or Villas Si Como No. [BL] -5-
DAY 8: MANUEL ANTONIO SAN JOSE Its time to say goodbye to our new friends. A short transfer will take us to the Quepos airstrip where we board a twin engine charter flight (25 minutes) direct to the San Jose International airport. Upon arrival, a driver will be waiting to take you to the terminal. [B] Note that your flight back home must depart after 11:00 a.m. for us to be able to connect the local flight with your international flight. End of services Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives. 25 LB. PER PERSON BAGGAGE WEIGHT LIMIT ON DOMESTIC FLIGHTS AND SMALL BOATS There is a 25 lb. per person baggage weight limit per person (plus 10 pounds carry-on luggage including your camera equipment) for transportation on domestic airline flights and small boat trips within your itinerary. The airline and boat operators enforce these limitations on your checked baggage for safety reasons. You and your small carry-on bag will be weighed separately. To comply with these requirements, we suggest that you repack only the items needed for the portion of your itinerary that includes these modes of transportation, and leave other items behind in storage. If you are returning to the same San Jose area hotel, simply request to store your excess luggage at the hotel. If you are not returning to the same hotel, give your extra baggage to your transfer driver to be stored by your ground operator. Request that your luggage be brought to you upon your pick up and return transfer from the plane or boat portion of your trip. Please ask your service guide in Costa Rica if you have any additional questions regarding this policy. -6-
2012 PRICE CHILD 10 SEASON ADULT AND UNDER High Season $2,995 $1,895 Low Season $2,895 $1,895 * Single supplement: $935. Low Season: May 1-June 30 and September 1-November 30, 2012. High Season: December 15 - April 30, 2012 and July 1 - Aug 31, 2012. $200 Peak Season Surcharge applies from December 15, 2012 to January 5, 2013. Departs with minimum 4 people paying full price. Child price applies when child is sharing with 2 adults or 2 people paying full price. December departures include 4 nights at the beach (extra night to be paid at additional cost) - New Year's Dinner Carnival to be paid at additional cost (mandatory). 2013 PRICE CHILD 10 SEASON ADULT AND UNDER High Season $3,095 $1,995 Low Season $2,995 $1,995 * Single supplement: $935. Low Season: May 1-June 30 and September 1-November 30, 2013. High Season: December 15 - April 30, 2013 and July 1 - Aug 31, 2013. $200 Peak Season Surcharge applies from December 15, 2013 to January 5, 2014. Departs with minimum 4 people paying full price. Child price applies when child is sharing with 2 adults or 2 people paying full price. December departures include 4 nights at the beach (extra night to be paid at additional cost) - New Year's Dinner Carnival to be paid at additional cost (mandatory). INCLUDED SERVICES All guided tours and excursions English-speaking naturalist guides Airport-hotel transfers, land and sea transportation and Internal flights 7 nights hotel accommodation as indicated Meals as indicated [B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner] Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services NOT INCLUDED SERVICES International Airfare Tips and gratuities Airport departure taxes Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than listed above Personal expenses for extra services, optional activities, or changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control Travel insurance for trip cancellation, medical services, or evacuation -7-
Accommodations HOTEL BOUGAINVILLEA About thirty minutes from the international airport in the suburbb of Santo Domingo is Hotel Bougainvillea. This attractive three-story hotel is set in beautifully landscaped grounds with paths winding through tropical flowers and garden benches. Spacious rooms offer two double beds, TV, and a balcony. Other amenities include a swimming pool, tennis court, and restaurant. ARENAL NAYARA, ARENAL A world of comfort and style surrounded by an untouched natural paradise. Located in the outskirts of one of the world's most amazing volcanoes, Arenal Nayara Hotel & Gardens is the experience of a lifetime. Each large, suite-sized including a backyard, outdoor shower and private front balcony. Bungalows include bungalow provides ample space and privacy, one king or two full sized beds (with deluxee bedding), a plasma 27 cable TV and DVD/CD player, ipod stand, wireless internet, safety box (laptop capacity), air conditioning, private bathroom with hot water, backyard outdoor shower, stocked mini fridge, coffee maker, front balcony overlooking the volcano, private outdoor volcano-view Jacuzzi. The hotel s restaurant, Altamira, has an excellent view of the Volcano (weather permitting) and serves three full meals daily. Other amenities include a pool with wet bar and full-service spa facility. Make one of these luxurious casitas your home in this lush and verdant natural wonder, where simply waking up to the wondrous sight of the Arenal Volcano is an experience in itself. HOTEL EL PARADOR, QUEPOS Uniquely set among luxuriant coastal rainforest overlooking Costa Rica's famous Manuel Antonio National Park, Hotel Parador Resort & Spa perches atop a 400 acre secluded peninsula surrounded by wild beauty facing the Pacificc Ocean and Punta Quepos. Spectacular views can be enjoyed from the terraces, swimming pools and suites. The Resorts boosts its own private natural trails where a great variety of species of wildlife make their home in the middle of an overwhelming flora and fauna. -8-
Booking your Wildland Adventure HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reserve a Trip form or by calling 1-800-345-4453. Your space on a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and submit a Release of Liability. Deposit requirements are as follows:* $500 per person for all trips in Central America. $700 per person for all trips in South America, the Middle East, Asia and the Far East, the Mediterranean and North America. 20% of land cost for all trips in Africa. This deposit is generally non-refundable. *Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered, or if permits to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance. CUSTOM TRAVEL This trip isn t exactly what you re looking for? We are happy to design a private custom itinerary to accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at 1-800-345-4453, send an email to info@wildland.com, or use the Ask The Program Director button on the trip itinerary page on our website. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators: Days Prior to Departure: Fee per person 91 or more: $300 61-90 days: Initial deposit amount 31-60 days: 50% of land cost 30 or less: 100% of land cost PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Predeparture Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure. REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS Have any questions or concerns? Call us a 1-800-345-4453 or email info@wildland.com. We re here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local incountry ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary. It is however possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality. (If upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions -9-